Too many ministers

PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill has appointed nine vice-ministers. The government should already be aware of the complacency within the public service and the ineffective delivery of services as shown by the poor health outcomes and the poor output of state owned enterprises, even though they get huge funding and resourcing. An efficient public service will use less money and deliver better results which will also ensure that key government policies are effectively delivered and savings are created. There are a number of government departments and agencies which are not doing what they are supposed to be doing. Yet those departments demand more funding and use the money without proper budgeting and acquittals, while enjoying the high salaries, perks and privileges. But to rein them in will require expenditure and effort, especially in the management of resources in line with properly approved processes and procedures. Things like punctuality, accountability, corporate governance and staff support need to be strengthened by bringing in private sector practices. Clearly, the public service doesn’t need two different ministers serving one department or agency; the duplication will disrupt the coordination of effort between the government and the departments and agencies. The duplication of leadership will also duplicate planning and control and can lead to conflict of interest, inefficiency, high expenditure and poor service delivery.